After the loss of a loved one, those individuals in mourning choose to express their grief in different ways and for different lengths of time. And while the first thing that comes to mind for mourning is wearing all-black, another lesser known tradition is mourning jewelry.

Expressions of Grief specialize in unique and timeless jewelry that can be worn in remembrance of the dearly departed.

Widow’s Rings

Perhaps the most popular of mourning jewelry is the widow’s ring which is worn next to the wedding bands. A widow’s ring is a touchable, visible symbol of altered life change and does not necessarily replace the wedding bands. This ring is worn to reflect grief and to remember. To remove your wedding rings is “A matter of the heart” …not “A matter of time.”

Commemorate Spouses, Parents, Siblings and More

When you have suffered a loss, only you can decide how to honor your loved one. Mourning jewelry is a physical reminder than can be with you daily to help ensure that moving forward does not feel like forgetting.

So many beautiful designs are available that symbolize personal grief, connection and love. Each is crafted with care from durable, high quality materials. For touching stories and more photos, find Expressions of Grief by Diane on Facebook.

The Prayer Wheel Ring- A Beautiful and Unique Choice

Introducing a lovely and innovative design, the Prayer Wheel Ring is an Expressions of Grief exclusive. This ring is made of stainless steel with a printed outer black ring that can spin on its base. In Tibet, Prayer Wheels are spun to send a prayer spinning to the heavens. The spin is believed to be the same as saying the prayer out loud so each spin of the ring counts as a time that the prayer is said.

This Prayer Wheel Ring is printed with the words “always in my heart & soul” and can serve as a way to send a silent peaceful message any time it is worn.

The choice of mourning jewelry is very personal and can be a step in a healthy grieving process. When questions are left unanswered and a heart feels broken, having a tangible symbol of love and serenity can be a very powerful thing.Expressions of Griefunderstand how to craft jewelry that is more than something you wear, but something you always feel.

Typically given by a close friend or relative, eulogies present the difficult task of putting into words who the lost loved one was in life and how they will be remembered.

Choosing these words can be a monumental task in a time of grief. This story details the experience of witnessing a eulogy given in a refreshing and participatory manner.

My grandmother, simply put, was a building block in my life. My brothers and I spent most of our childhood weekends at her house – certainly every holiday. And because she lived only 8 miles away, she was a frequent sight at our back door bringing in squash and tomatoes from her garden or wanting us to sample some new casserole she was experimenting with.

When I was in college was when I started noticing changes in her. She became curt and easily frustrated. She took every action or non-action as a personal insult and had mood swings that were out of control. She lost interest in her church which baffled everyone. And in a few years after her doctors had first introduced us to the word “dementia” they had to explain a new word to us. Alzheimer’s Disease.

After various health problems took their toll, our family maintained in-home nurses to see to her needs as long as possible. But good days grew further apart and after multiple hospitalizations, we reluctantly selected a full care facility. While she grumbled and complained about the situation, she also was rapidly losing touch. She acted miserable after she was picked up for family events or simple outings, would throw tantrums and refuse her medicine.

While all of this hurtful difficult behavior was classic examples of this disease, the family so rarely caught a glimpse of the warm, funny and intelligent woman my grandmother had been. When she finally succumbed to her health problems and passed away, our family grieved together. We consoled ourselves with the fact that she was at peace now after years what can only be described as suffering.

Despite this sadness, her funeral was everything she would have wanted it to be. So many of her friends and family were able to attend, her flowers looked lovely and she looked well-appointed and at ease resting in her open casket. But I believe she would have be most proud of her daughter who choose to give her eulogy.

While there were a few tears when describing her mother’s life achievements, my aunt spoke only briefly before turning to the congregation. She asked if anyone had any stories they wanted to share. I had never attended a funeral service where the attendees where asked to speak informally. It was as if a barrier had been removed and suddenly friends and family were eagerly standing and telling incredible stories of my grandmother.

Some were short and polite, some were the ones we had heard a million times, others were new or rambling, but all were fascinating. We even laughed together as a large group when her childhood best friend recounted a story that had been retold countless times in her family about being young girls in the 1930s and giving their dolls a bath in a washtub under the clothesline.

Walking out of the funeral home, I found myself with a smile on my face because the love in the room was truly overwhelming. I am so thankful that, after years of losing sense of who this amazing woman was, we were all reminded in a crucial moment exactly who she was and what she had meant to all of us. I believe my grandmother would have felt happy and honored to be remembered in this way.

Celebrations of Life is an on-going series that features stories submitted by you that highlight how friends, family, and even strangers celebrate the life of the dearly departed. We keep these stories anonymous to protect identities but also to illustrate the universal experience of losing a loved one. You can share your stories in the comments below.

Grief is a constant client for the proprietors of a funeral home. As such, each and every staff member is thoroughly trained and kept as prepared as possible to deal with it in all its many forms. With that in mind, it should come as no surprise to learn that many funeral homes employ a grief counselor or have one on retainer, but what you may not know is that more and more funeral directors have seen fit to hire some additional help in the grief counseling arena. For a growing number of funeral homes, grief therapy just isn’t complete without a grief therapy dog!

Grief Therapy Dog?

That’s right, a grief therapy dog. This is a dog that acts as another employee, greeting and comforting clients in their time of need. Some have said that once it’s been on the job a few months, a grief therapy dog becomes intuitive about who wants the attention and who does not. Even going so far as to seek out someone that is most in need of its services!

So why is this effective? Scientists have proven that petting animals will reduce stress, lower blood pressure and a University of Missouri-Columbia researcher concluded in 2004 that it will even create a hormonal response that raises serotonin levels which help fight depression!

Because basic interactions with a dog have such profound benefits, dogs come naturally to the role of grief therapist. Some of these dogs are true professionals and have undergone extensive training while others simply fall into the role. Either way, the benefit to the humans they comfort are the same.

Training

The problem, of course, lies in the fact that some people don’t like dogs and therefore aren’t interested in any amount of attention from one. This is where training becomes a factor. Grief therapy dogs are respectful of client’s wishes and are trained only to approach if they are solicited. They do not jump up, get rambunctious or get overly excited. A good grief therapy dog is very reserved, accepting of attention but not demanding it and not only willing but happy about going to work.

And it does know it’s going to work. Most grief therapy dogs double as a house pet to one of the funeral home employees, and they invariably say that when the therapy vest comes out, the dog understands what is expected of it and acts accordingly. As much as any other employee in the office, these dogs are professionals.

Grief therapy dogs are a proven benefit and offer love, attention and care to those clients most in need of comfort. They are not only valued employees, but beloved pets. If you are interested in acquiring a grief therapy dog, you should contact your local AKC certified trainers and see if they would be able to help you. Any trainer should be able to help once they understand the behaviors you are looking for.

Not every dog is cut out to be a grief therapy dog. Just as you’d hire any other position in your office, you look for the right attitude and the right fit. However, once you find the right dog, you’ll never understand how you got along without it.

Plant a memory of your loved one with beautiful memorial flowers and trees that express your sympathy to be shared with friends and family. Or, give a unique “growing memory” gift that blooms and flourishes year after year while creating a lasting tribute to a loved one. What better way to remember a cherished one than with a tree or flowers in a memorial garden?

In planting trees and flowers, you’re passing the gift of life back to earth. Unforgettable lush trees benefits everyone for future generations to come through sight and meaning. They also provide a wonderful symbol of the continuation of life for your loved one.

One company that is offering a memorable way to memorialize life is Plant A Memory. Withthem, they help create a beautiful way of remembrance of your loved one with their plant memorial gifts.

This company offers evergreens, forget-me-nots, daisies, wildflowers, herbal garden mixes or roses to remember your beloved. All come in beautiful packaging that is dedicated to your loved one.

With these seeds and trees, you’ll be able to create a memorial garden with gorgeous flowers and trees that offer a special place to honor your cherished one. Every time you see the garden, you’ll be reminded of all the fond memories that you two shared.

It’s also something that you’ll be able to share with family members and generations to come.

Since Plant A Memory features these lovely seeds and trees in beautiful packaging, they are ideal for funeral keepsakes. Some family members like to save flowers from the funeral as a keepsake, but These lovely seed packets offer a renewable alternative to that practice.

They are even personalized with name, dates and a special message. Choose a dove bookmark with a wildflower mix, a cross memorial keepsake with forget-me-nots or a lovely evergreen that let family members have a beautiful, living keepsake to cherish for years to come.

Share lasting memories by planting flowers and trees that will bloom and grow with time. Visit Plant A Memory for meaningful and special flowers, as well as evergreens to create an everlasting impression for your loved one.

The loss of a pet is utterly heart wrenching. To some, it’s like losing a member of their family. Pet memorials are a great way to commemorate the lives of those who gave you so much love and companionship. All pets are special and deserve a high quality memorial that will remind you and others of your wonderful life together. Pet families need the same support as those who are grieving the loss of a human family member. This is why dog and other pet memorials are becoming increasingly popular.

There are many memorials available that can capture the special nature of your pet. You’ll find headstones, pet memorial stones, urns, tribute boxes, pet memorial jewelry and even online memorials.

Pet Headstones & Urns

There are many different types of headstones and urns for your beloved pet. Many companies provide headstones that feature their name, date of birth and passing date. You can even have it personalized by adding a precious photo, including a tribute or creating a special design. Monument companies will have many suggestions to enhance your ideas.

If you are wanting to have your pet cremated, you’ll also find various urns for the ashes. Again, you’ll find many designs and styles so you can choose the best one that suits your pet’s personality. Choose from wooden photo boxes, marble urns with or without a personalized photo, urns with poems, figurine urns and outdoor urns. These can easily be personalized exactly as you want so your friend is memorialized.

Shadow Boxes

Another alternative is a shadow box. This is a tribute box for your pet where you can place special photos, mementos, paw print impressions’, dog collar or favorite toy. Whatever your pet was fond of, include it in the shadow box. What a comforting way to memorialize your pet in your home. Every time you see the shadow box, you will be reminded of the special times you shared with your beloved dog, cat or animal family member.

Memorial Jewelry

You’ll also be able to memorialize your pet with jewelry. Pendants, bracelets or necklaces are available in different sizes, shapes and designs. Memorial jewelry is a way to keep you cherished pet close to your heart.

Memorial Pet Gardens

If you would like to honor you pet in a unique way that is comforting year round and you can celebrate the life of your pet, consider creating a memorial garden. Create a nice resting place for your beloved pet with a personalized memorial that is surrounded by beautiful flowers and trees. Your cherished pet can rest peacefully in their own lovely living memorial.

There are many ways to honor your beloved pet. It’s never easy to say goodbye, but a well-chosen pet memorial can help you remember your special pet.

There are many forms of grief. How you cope with death is your decision. Everyone grieves differently. Why not let it have a positive impact of your life?

When you lose a loved one, do you ever take a moment to sit down and see how their death impacts your life? You’ll miss spending time with them, sharing talks and just knowing that they will always be there for you. What sort of positivity can come from it? Yes, it’s a truly saddening time, but think about how it can have a positive impact on your life.

Recently, Candy Chang, a local artist in New Orleans, took the time to turn an abandoned home into a giant chalkboard. She created a fill in the blank that said, “Before I die, I want to _____”. Her neighbors answers were funny, inspiring and uplifting. It made them take a moment and understand their dreams, wishes and life aspirations.

How can you apply this to your life or how can that same scenario help you with your grieving process? Live each day to it’s fullest, because your time on earth can be gone in an instant. Is there anything you have wanted to do since you were little: a hobby you wish you would have taken up; a specific food you’ve wanted to taste; a beautiful location you’ve wanted to visit? Everyone has hopes and dreams; start living yours today.

Sit down and create a bucket list of the things you have always dreamed about. You can even create a bucket list that features some of the aspirations of your lost one and dedicate it to them. It can be the top five, twenty or even one hundred. You decide. Let the loss of your loved one have a positive impact by helping you live your life to the fullest. Strive towards your goals and never give up. Once you achieve them, you will be able to look back and say that the loss of your loved one truly had a positive impact on your life.

As a parent, the emotional health of your child is always at the forefront of your mind. When a family member or friend passes, it is natural for you to be concerned about their involvement in the funeral services. You may be feeling grief, anger or even guilt and fear that your child will experience the same difficult emotions. In the past, it was considered unwise to allow a young child to attend a funeral, primarily based on the high emotions and fear of death it may create. Today though, most funeral homes, psychologists and parents see the funeral as a chance to provide closure for a child who has lost someone they care deeply about and to shed light on the mysterious, and often frightening, concept of death. FSN Funeral Homes has taken the time to list a few considerations you should make when choosing whether or not to allow your child to attend a funeral.

Is my child old enough?

Age is possibly the greatest concern for most who oppose children attending funerals. Rabbi Earl Grollman, a bereavement specialist and chairman of the National Center of Death Education at Mount Ida College, suggests that, “If a child is old enough to go to church services, that’s old enough to go to a funeral.”

On the other hand, Hospice of the Valley finds that, “When deciding whether your child should attend a funeral or memorial service, age is not the most important consideration. Your child is part of the family, and children who are old enough to love are old enough to grieve.” From their perspective a healthy grieving process should be supported in all ages.

The primary concern you should truly have is the maturity level of your child. Can he or she remain quiet? Is your toddler too restless to sit through a service? Will your child remain respectful of others? Decide whether or not your child will disturb others during their mourning. Remember, kids are kids and you cannot expect them to listen intently to every speaker and song. If the child can be occupied by a quiet activity, this would be an appropriate distraction.

Attending a Funeral Allows Your Child to Say “Goodbye”

How close was my child to the deceased?

If you feel that your child has a meaningful bond with the deceased, that their loss will affect them personally, then there is good reason to allow your child to attend the funeral. Just like adults, children need closure.

The funeral serves the same purpose for children as it does for adults. The shared mourning and celebration of life are crucial to a healthy acceptance of their loved one’s passing. Phyllis R. Silverman, a psychologist who has conducted research concerning children who attended a parent’s funeral, stated that she found among those children she interviewed a generally positive perspective. “They were pleased that there were many people at the funeral who cared for their parent. They talked about the importance of remembering, celebrating their parent’s memory and mourning together. The funeral helped them do that.”

Many parents and psychologists have also found that children appreciate being included in the funeral plans of someone dear to them. Choosing the casket or deceased’s dress is often offered as good ways to involve them in the decision-making process. You could also suggest they write a letter or draw a picture to be placed in the casket.

Does my child want to attend the funeral?

While it may seem strange to allow your child to make this decision, giving your child the power of choice will provide them with confidence and control in a time when they are feeling powerless.

If your child is uncertain whether or not they wish to go, there are several reasons they may be hesitant. They could have unanswered questions or unfounded fears. For example, Barbara F. Meltz, a child care journalist, explains that referring to the deceased’s “body” may unwittingly create a fear of a headless loved one. They may not understand the gravity of the situation and find personal, selfish things more appealing – like thinking, “Why would I spend my Saturday with old people? I want to play ball!”

Do not make the child feel guilty for not wanting to attend, simply ask them why they don’t want to. Address any concerns they mention honestly and sincerely. Additionally, many psychologists recommend encouraging the child to attend. Emphasize the family aspect of the service and the reasons funerals are held – showing respect, celebrating life, and grieving with family.

If your child does choose to attend the funeral, encourage him or her to ask questions and assure them that you want to know how they are feeling. Conveying openness and a willingness to work with your child will give them the support they need to address their grief. Make sure to thoroughly explain what will happen during the funeral so they fully understand what will take place, eleminating any fear of the unexpected.

The Key to Protecting Your Child

Let your child feel included in the funeral

As an adult, you understand what has happened to a deceased loved one without attending a funeral, but a child has no concept of such things as a casket, grave, or burial if you do not educate them. Imagine never knowing what has happened to a loved one; this is how your child could feel if they are not familiar with the concept of death and funerals. The best method to ensure your child will be ready for a funeral is to prepare them yourself. Do not avoid answering questions, but reward curiosity with enthusiasm. This preparation should address the following aspects:

The Funeral Service – Hospice of the Valley suggests you make sure the 5 W’s and H are answered for the child when addressing the funeral service (Who, What, When, Where, Why and How).

The Concept of Death – Death’s permanence, the separation from a loved one, and the physical body may be difficult concepts for your child to understand. Be straightforward and avoid euphemisms which may be confusing to your child.

The Emotional Aspect – Describe how some people may be acting at the funeral – crying, quiet, etc. – and open up to your child about how you feel. Most importantly, make sure your child is comfortable with his or her own feelings. Let them know that reacting emotionally is natural, but also that he or she will not be expected to act like everyone else. Everyone mourns differently. Encouraging your child to write, draw, or talk out any feelings they are having is a good way to gauge how they are reacting to the experience.

If you find discussing any of these issues difficult, there is no need to worry. There are plenty of resources out there to help you educate your child on all aspects of death – from the funeral to grief. Also, when you find the funeral home which will be holding the service, contact the director. Sometimes they will have special services just for children or at least will be prepared to answer any questions your child may have.

“I hear people say the funeral would be too hard on them. They are not allowed to say good-bye to loved grandparents because the experience might traumatize them. In our efforts to protect, we leave it to their imaginations. That which is left to the imagination is an invitation to nightmares and struggle.”

– Doug Manning, in The Funeral: A Chance to Touch, A Chance to Serve, A Chance to Heal

While it would be easier to look at this decision as if it were black and white, it’s not. This issue truly is a personal decision based on your individual child – and it should be individually based on each child you have. Though the parental instinct wants to immediately protect your child from such a tragic event, opening up to your child about what is going on is the best way to protect them. As Manning said, avoiding the topic of death simply makes it a more terrifying idea. Children will try to explain their world in whatever way they can, even death, so leaving them uninformed is simply leaving room for fear. Whether or not you find attending a funeral would be right for your child, you should take the time to explain to him or her what is going on. Most importantly, ensure that your child does not feel isolated. Make sure they understand what is going on, know that there are people they can reach out to, and let them know that their opinions and feelings matter to the family. Taking the time to reassure and educate your child could make all the difference in how they deal with the loss of a loved one.

Other Resources for Your Consideration:

The Funeral: A Chance to Touch, A Chance to Serve, A Chance to Heal by Doug Manning

The holidays may be a time which brings friends and family closer together, but it’s not easy to celebrate with the loss of a loved one weighing on your mind. While their absence may be painful, there are many beautiful ways to remember those you have lost and to celebrate their life during the holidays.

Overcoming Holiday Sadness through Memorials

If you want to remind yourself and others that a loved one’s passing has not ceased their importance in your life, a memorial can serve as the perfect reminder. Many different types of memorials are out there and each could be easily personalized with intimate touches. Below are a few examples.

A living memorial, such as a tree or rose bush, makes a perfect opportunity to host a memorial service in your loved one’s honor.

Annually lighting a candle allows those who participate to take a moment to remember those they have loved and lost and may be displayed in a window for all to see.

Christmas ornaments or memorial plaques may be set up with holiday decorations as a seasonal reminder of a loved one’s memory.

Hand-maid memorials give kids the opportunity to participate in the remembrance process. (Ideas and templates for homemade memorials may be found online.)

A good friend of mine has lost a loved one, should I call or visit right away?

Yes. Calling to ask what help is needed is a great way to show sympathy to your friend. Necessary help isn’t always available when it is needed. Visits to the home are usually welcomed if you are close to the bereaved. Call first to inform them of your visit.

Is there anything I can say to ‘Make it better’?

Grief is a very painful and emotionally draining experience. Words cannot make it better. It is best to help the grieving with support, love and sympathy.

I wasn’t able to go to the funeral or respond right away, is it too late to offer my condolences?

It is never too late to share your sympathy. Often, the time after the funeral service is filled with family and friends offering sympathy and love, but as time goes on, the help dwindles. It is never to late to show that you care.

When will my friend get over the grief and go back to her old self?

Grief doesn’t have a time line. It is a process that can last years, with ups and downs. It is normal for the grieved to go through stages of fear, shock, pain, anger, guilt, denial, loneliness acceptance and finally recovery. But it takes time and patience. As a friend, the most important thing you can do is be there for them, through their ups and downs.

I feel uncomfortable around my grieving friend. I am trying not to avoid her, but sometimes I feel it’s best. What should I do?

Avoiding your friend only adds to their pain. And, can make them feel even worse. Don’t pity your friend, treat them like you normally do. If you can’t find the right words, be open about it and tell them honestly. Sharing a coffee break or a lunch will be a good way to sit and talk about everything. Once everything is out in the open, your feelings will be easier to express.

Although children have shorter attention spans and seem to forget or ignore tragedy and pain, they can actually grieve longer than adults do. The steps of the grieving process are taken in short spurts because of their attention spans, but they too, have to go through the same steps of grief as an adult. From accepting and comprehending death to recovering and moving on.

Should we include our children at the funeral?

When it comes to children, honesty is key. Children have large imaginations which can make things worse if they are not told what is going on. Children should be encouraged but never forced to take part as a family during the funeral or wake. This is a time for families to come together, share, comfort and mourn together. Your child shouldn’t be left out.

Our children seem distraught and unusually saddened since the loss of a family member, is this normal?

Children, much like adults can lose control of their emotions. Acute anger and guilt can build up as they might feel abandoned or deserted. They might feel as if the death was their fault. Professional help might be needed if there are prolonged periods of abnormal behavior. Accepting loss takes time, and the process of grief can take years to overcome. But, watching for signs of depression in children is very important, since it is harder for them to express their emotions.

Violence: They show acts of violence against piers, adults or themselves.

Any and all of these symptoms are common and expected when children have to face the loss of a loved one – however, the severity and the length of time that it takes is what you have to look out for. Watch for prolonged periods of time that you child is not acting like themselves.

Offer support and encourage communication using verbal expressions of emotions. Talk with child and ask questions about their feelings. Children have a hard time communicating especially when it has to do with death. The unknown is scary. You want to answer their questions in the most age appropriate way. Being honest, calm and real. If you cry, it’s ok. Teaching children that tears and sorrow are normal helps them to feel comfortable expressing their grief.

Ask for help

When in doubt, ask for help. Contact a family counselor, your church, or school counselor for help. It is hard to help someone deal with grief, if you too are going through the grief process. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, it is encouraged and respected. Be a good role model for your child and accept that grief is a process that takes time and effort to get through.